Import Licence & Permit Services Canada
CBSA import permit applications, CFIA food import licenses, and controlled goods documentation. Navigate complex import regulations and ensure smooth customs clearance.
Bringing commercial goods into Canada requires compliance with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), Global Affairs Canada (GAC), and Health Canada. The mandatory CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) portal requires importers to manage their own commercial accounting declarations, security bonds, and licensing. GovPrepare provides practical guidance to configure your CRA RM import account, register on CARM, obtain CFIA Safe Food for Canadians (SFC) licenses, and prepare controlled goods documentation.
Goals
- Activate CRA Import/Export (RM) program account on your Business Number
- Set up CARM Client Portal (CCP) user access, delegation of authority, and financial security
- Assist with Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) Safe Food for Canadians (SFC) import licences
- Identify Harmonized System (HS) tariff classification codes and tariff treatment
- Prepare Global Affairs Canada (GAC) import permits for supply-managed or steel/aluminum commodities
Outcomes
- Valid 9-digit CRA Business Number (BN)
- Product description, manufacturing origin, and bill of materials / spec sheets
- Commercial invoice samples and estimated shipment volumes
- Existing customs broker relationship details (if applicable)
The Import Licence & Permit Services Canada Process
Account activation
Activate the CRA RM import-export sub-account and set up CARM portal access.
Regulatory screening
Determine whether goods are controlled by CFIA, GAC, Transport Canada, or Health Canada.
Permit drafting
Draft and file specific import licence applications with the relevant regulatory authority.
Customs clearance prep
Equip your operations team with compliant declarations and tariff guidance.
Ready to start import licence & permit services canada?
$449 flat rate • 3 hours • Certified 1-on-1 GovGuides™
Import Licence & Permit Services Canada - Your Questions Answered
What is CARM and why is it mandatory?
CARM is CBSA's digital portal for commercial importers. All Canadian importers must register in CARM to post security and clear commercial shipments across the border.
Do I need a customs broker?
While you can clear shipments yourself via CARM, working with a customs broker is recommended. We set up your CARM portal and delegate access to your broker seamlessly.
Statistics & Program References (2026)
All figures on this page are sourced from official Government of Canada and United States government publications. Figures reflect 2026 program parameters unless otherwise noted.
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